Returning to School in January is a crucial opportunity to verify that water hygiene controls remain effective. Holiday closures, reduced occupancy, and changes in building use can all affect domestic hot and cold water systems if not properly managed. 

January checks help confirm that systems and control measures continue to function as intended following the Christmas break. Taking a proactive approach at this stage supports ongoing compliance and reduces the likelihood of issues developing later in the year. 

Reviewing Building Use After the Holidays

One of the most critical January checks is understanding how the school building was used over the Christmas period. While schools may officially close for set dates, areas such as offices, caretaker facilities, nurseries, sports halls, or holiday clubs may remain operational for longer, resulting in uneven water usage across the site.

Reviewing which outlets were frequently used, intermittently used, or not used at all helps identify areas where stagnation may have occurred. This information should feed back into the Legionella risk assessment and routine monitoring arrangements, ensuring they reflect actual building use rather than assumed occupancy.

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Flushing Checks and Record Keeping

Flushing remains a key control measure within school water hygiene regimes, particularly following periods of low use. In January, it is essential to confirm that flushing routines were carried out during the holiday period where required and that these actions were clearly recorded.

This is also an appropriate time to ensure that responsible persons understand which outlets require regular flushing and why. Changes to staffing, contractors, or building layout can sometimes create uncertainty about responsibilities. January reviews provide an opportunity to clarify roles before control gaps develop.

Updating duty rotas, displaying clear guidance on flushing responsibilities, and using staff briefings to reinforce procedures can help maintain consistency. Clear records should demonstrate not only that flushing took place, but that it was carried out regularly and in line with the site's risk assessment. 

While flushing supports water movement, it should be recognised as a control measure rather than a confirmation of system condition. 

Understanding Where Water Sampling Fits

Water sampling is often misunderstood as a routine requirement, when in reality it is a verification tool that supports confidence in existing control measures. January is a sensible time to consider whether sampling would be beneficial following extended periods of reduced use, particularly where there are concerns about stagnation or changes in water usage patterns.

For schools, this may include general bacteria or coliform testing to provide reassurance that water quality remains satisfactory, alongside Legionella sampling where risk assessment findings indicate it is appropriate. Sampling should always align with the specific risks identified at the site rather than being treated as a blanket requirement.

Situations where sampling may be considered include prolonged closures, known water quality concerns, or significant changes to building use. Using sampling selectively and in context helps schools demonstrate a risk-based, proportionate approach to water hygiene management.

Not sure if sampling is required for your site?  We can advise and arrange it.

Temperature Monitoring and Corrective Actions

As buildings return to normal occupancy, temperature monitoring provides a valuable snapshot of system performance. January checks should confirm that hot and cold water temperatures are being consistently achieved at sentinel outlets, and that any deviations are promptly investigated. 

Where corrective actions have been identified, it is essential to ensure they are properly closed out rather than deferred. Reviewing trends and patterns over time is often more meaningful than relying on isolated readings and can help determine whether issues are recurring or explicitly linked to the holiday period. 

Typical corrective actions may include additional flushing, adjusting thermostatic controls, or repairing or replacing faulty components. Addressing these issues promptly supports the ongoing effectiveness of the school's water hygiene controls. 

Planning Ahead for the Year

January is also an ideal time to plan ahead rather than focus solely on past performance. Findings from post-holiday checks can inform arrangements for upcoming half-term and future closures, reducing the risk of repeated issues.

This may include reviewing flushing regimes, confirming responsibilities, or scheduling verification activities where appropriate. Simple tools such as checklists, calendar reminders, and staff briefings can help embed water hygiene management into routine operations throughout the year.

A Balanced Approach to Water Hygiene

Effective water hygiene management in schools relies on regular, focused reviews rather than unnecessary additional controls. January provides a valuable opportunity to confirm that existing arrangements remain suitable and effective following a period of reduced use. 

Where uncertainty exists, seeking specialist guidance can help ensure that checks are proportionate and aligned with actual risk. A calm, risk-based approach supports compliance and confidence as the new term begins.